All three and four year old children are entitled to free early years learning. In Cambridgeshire, these funded places are available in:
- pre-schools
- playgroups
- day nurseries
- independent schools
- local authority nursery schools/classes, and
- with accredited childminder networks
Early years funding is a national scheme, administered by local authorities in their areas. You can read about the legal framework and principles in the Early Years Funding Code of Practice for Local Authorities.
What does my child get?
Your child is entitled to 15 free hours of early learning per week over 38 weeks. These hours can also be spread more evenly across the year but with fewer hours per week, for example 11 hours per week over 52 weeks (up to 570 hours a year).
What are the benefits for my child?
Quality early learning and childcare provide opportunities for your child to develop skills; creating, communicating and exploring in a safe environment with qualified childcare professionals – and during this time you could be at work or attend courses.
Children who take part in early years learning can have an easier transition into school because they have already had the opportunity to express themselves socially, creatively, physically and emotionally through play. They may be more confident interacting with other children and adults.
How and when do I apply?
Your child becomes eligible the start of the term after they turn three.
- Children born between January and March, can receive free early education from 1 April when they are three.
- Children born between April and August can receive their free hours from 1 September when they are three.
- Children born between September and December receive their free hours from 1 January when they are three.
You should apply through your childcare provider several weeks before the start of term. It is important to complete the forms on time. If you need help finding a provider, please contact our Childcare Information Service - details on the right hand side of the page.
Free Twos – free childcare for two year olds
There are also a limited number of funded places for two year olds for up to 12.5 hours of free childcare per week during school terms (38 weeks per year). To qualify, families must be receiving certain benefits. Children are referred for funding by their local Children’s Centre.
What you can do
- Read our leaflet which gives all the information you need to know about it
- Check with your provider to find out what they can offer, you want it to work for you and your child’s needs
- Contact the Childcare Information Service to find out who offers what in your area
- To find out if your child is eligible for Free Twos funding, contact your local Children’s Centre, or contact the Childcare Information Service for information about which Children’s Centre to contact.
Further sources of help
Information on the free early learning available to all parents with children aged three and four years old